Winterwonderland Travel, Valentine’s Day Fashion photoshoot, Old Quebec City, Chateau Frontenac, Ethereal Beauty, Goldleaf Chocolate Ganache Tart, Galentine’s Day Champagne Punch, Hotel de Glace, Village Vacances Valcartier
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The Paris House, Sunday Guides, February 2025
Cover
Winterwonderland Travel
Valentine’s Day Fashion photoshoot
Quebec City
Chateau Frontenac
Ethereal Beauty
Goldleaf Chocolate Ganache Tart
Galentine’s Day Champagne Punch
Hotel de Glace, Village Vacances Valcartier
Table of Contents
Cover 1 photo credit Toboggan Slide Au 1884, Molly Caouette
Cover 2 photo credit Christen Holly Photography
Editor’s Letter
Map
Where We Stay in Québec City
Dining In Québec City: Aux Anciens Canadiens
Le Lapin Sauté
Le Cochon Dingue
Château Frontenac
Bistro Sam
Champlain
Place Dufferin
Bar 1608
Afternoon Tea
Hôtel de Glace
Shopping in Québec City: Pot en Ciel
Château Frontenac
What to See and Do in Québec City
Hôtel de Glace
The Québec City Toboggan Slide on Dufferin Terraces
Place Royale
Paris House Kitchen: Chocolate Ganache Tart
Strawberry Champagne
Fashion Editorial
Ask Michele
The Paris House Book Club
Binge Watch
The Book Club Dinner Party
Beauty
Stylish Winter Fashion
Sunday Guides, Valentine’s Day
Out and About with Paris House
Joie de Vivre
Sponsors/Advertisers
Media Collaborators
About The Paris House
Editor’s Letter
This issue's Editorial Letter includes the history of Quebec City along with why we feel it will make the perfect Winter getaway and a romantic Valentine's gift. We recently returned from our fourth trip to Quebec City, one of North America’s oldest European settlements, and we love it more every time we visit. Quebec City is rich in a history that spans hundreds of years, if not thousands, dating back to its Indigenous people. Through many centuries, numerous attacks, invasions, and treaties of this strategic location, Quebec City remains one of the most stunning prosperous locations in the world. Old Quebec City, The Old Town, has over 400 hundred years of history and is a UNESCO world heritage site. With its fortified walls, charming streets lined with cobblestone, and numerous restaurants and shops housed in centuries-old historic buildings, one will feel as if they are immersed in a lovely popup storybook that has come to life before their very eyes. While French is the spoken language, everyone goes out of their way to communicate respectfully. This article will also be included in a print version of our upcoming resort issue. This winter don't let the cold weather leave you bitter, instead, book an adventure to beautiful Quebec City and feel as if you are in a real-life snow globe. Although beautiful year-round, winter is our favorite time of year to visit. The surreal Hotel de Glace is a must-see while you are there during the winter months. We hope that you enjoy learning more about one of our favorite destinations in the World. We have included our recent fashion editorial, recipes, stylish outfits, and more.
Map courtesy of Château Frontenac
Where We Stay in Quebec City
From the moment you arrive at Chateau Frontenac with its gorgeous facade and turrets, it's immediately apparent why it's the most photographed hotel in the world. Visually stunning inside and out, this historic hotel is a National Historic site of Canada.
Construction began in 1892 by Canadian railway companies inspired by the medieval chateaux of France's Loire Valley. The architectural grandeur seemingly holds court perched on a cliff overlooking the fortified Old Town and the St. Lawrence River. We have stayed at the majestic Chateau Frontenac four times!
The hotel has welcomed many guests, including Queen Elizabeth ll and Celine Dion. Take time to relax and enjoy the Moment Spa, where you can book a day of pampering and beauty, visit the gym, and swim in the indoor pool.
Moment Spa
Our favorite time to visit is in the winter, when the toboggan slide is in full swing. This iconic ice slide, the most famous worldwide (in our opinion), offers breathtaking views of the hotel, old town, and St. Lawrence River from the top and a perfect photo opportunity.
The winter shopping is a delight, with our personal favorite, Lambert & Co., just off the lobby. We brought home a hand-crafted sheep, which we will treasure for many years. Regarding dining, the Chateau Frontenac offers a range of restaurants and bars serving delicious cuisine inspired by the region and local artisans, from cheese to wine.
When you're ready to explore the Old Town below, the Funicular, conveniently located just outside the hotel's doors, provides a seamless descent to the charming village. This is just one example of the thoughtful amenities and services that make a stay at the Chateau Frontenac so enjoyable.
Dining In Québec City: Aux Anciens Canadiens
Aux Anciens Canadiens, a culinary institution since 1675, has been serving classic, hearty meals inspired by the local Quebecois cuisine. Located in the heart of Quebec City, this establishment's longevity not only speaks to its tradition but also its reliability. Over the years, we have brought home blue and white dishes from their restaurant gift shop, and these items have become a cherished part of our home, evoking fond memories of Quebec City each time we use them for entertaining and dining.
Le Lapin Sauté
Le Lapin Sauté, nestled in Quebec's Petit Champlain district, is a delightful and charming neighborhood restaurant. Its unique charm, always our first stop when we arrive in Quebec City, welcomes us with open arms. While the hotel room is getting ready for our arrival, we take the funicular down to the Old Town, and in about three minutes, you will arrive! Try to get a table by the warm fire, order a glass of Vin Chaud (warm wine), and relax. We love their fondue, french onion soup, and smoked salmon. The maple creme brulee is delicious as well.
Located across the street is Le Cochon Dingue, “100% Québécois Bistro with a Parisian flair”
Château Frontenac
Chateau Frontenac, a grandeur landmark, boasts a myriad of renowned restaurants, each offering a unique dining experience. Whether staying at the hotel or simply visiting the area for the day, these diverse dining options are a must-try, promising to excite and satisfy your culinary cravings.
Bistro Sam
A casual, stylish setting that highlights delicious cuisine.
Champlain
Is an atmospheric restaurant with a regional menu featuring mouth-watering heritage cuisine.
Place Dufferin
Enjoy breakfast with a view and dine on the terrace in warmer weather with the St Lawrence River below.
( please use proper credits as indicated in drive folders for each section)
Bar 1608
It is our favorite and one we return to each time we are in Quebec City. The cozy ambiance, friendly staff, and the unique cocktails make it a standout in the city. Their mixologists create beautiful cocktails that are deliciously infused with herbs, fruits, and flowers. Order a cocktail and a cheese platter from local cheese shops, and you're in for a treat.
Afternoon Tea
Tea is served in style in Place Dufferin.
Quebec City's food scene is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Beyond its renowned restaurants, the village has charming coffee shops, ice cream parlors, and chocolate shops. We encourage you to venture out and explore the quaint, narrow, cobblestone-lined streets and lovely old town squares to discover your favorites. Don't miss the delicious waffles, crepes, and maple syrup!
Hôtel de Glace
Hôtel de Glace, the magnificent ice hotel, is the only Hôtel de Glace in North America and celebrates its 25th anniversary this winter. Constructed from 35,000 tons of snow, it unveils a new theme and design each year, a true masterpiece in ice architecture. With a bar, hotel, chapel, indoor slide, and the Grand Hall honoring the 11 Indigenous Nations of Quebec, it's a unique experience. This year, a fabulous restaurant is joining forces with Chateau Frontenac for the first time. The Ice Restaurant, the only one of its kind in North America, is entirely built from snow and ice. Located just 30 minutes from town, you can drive or take a shuttle directly from the city or Chateau Frontenac Hotel. Enjoy a three-course dinner in a winter wonderland unlike anything else you have experienced, and be intrigued by the unique design of the hotel.
Photo credit Ludovic Gauthier
Photo credit Paris House
While there, be sure to enjoy the many other winter activities in Village Vacances Valcartier, such as ice skating, snow slides, and more!
Shopping in Québec City: Pot en Ciel
Pot en Ciel, located in the Petit Champlain district of Old Town, is our favorite shop and a must-visit, especially if you love to cook and entertain. Established in 1985, it is a must for those who embrace the art of entertaining and cuisine. You will find the perfect gifts to bring home from local bespoke linens, pottery, unique kitchen items, and treasures sourced from France and internationally, making it a great place to find unique gifts.
Château Frontenac
Shopping in the hotel is a treat. Here, you will find Lambert & Co., a true gem that celebrates unique and local talent. Their collection of unique treasures is sure to pique your interest and leave you with a sense of discovery.
Throughout Old Quebec City, you will find a rich tapestry of shops selling coats, clothing, crafts, and a myriad of other locally made goods. This variety is a testament to the rich and diverse local culture. Visit the shops on Quartier Petit Champlain, Promenades Du Vieux Québec, and for Christmas treasures visit Le Boutique de Noël de Québec.
What to See and Do in Quebec City
From walking tours to ice skating, dining to winter sports, and shopping, activities are abundant for everyone! Don’t miss the Hôtel de Glace, the Toboggan slide at Château Frontenac, and visit the Old Town. Visit the charming Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church located in Place-Royale in Old Québec
Hôtel de Glace
The Québec City Toboggan Slide on Dufferin Terraces
“For over a century, the toboggan slide on Quebec City’s Dufferin Terrace has held its status as a distinctive and beloved attraction. This remarkable structure, ingrained in the lives of Quebec’s residents, first graced the terrace in 1884. Soon after, the iconic Château Frontenac, renowned as the world’s most photographed hotel, was erected beside the slide, casting its shade over what we believe to be the city’s oldest attraction.
Although it temporarily closed its gates in 1981, the slide saw a triumphant revival in December 1992 and has been in operation ever since. Descending down its thrilling slopes at speeds of up to 70 km/hour is sure to stir your emotions. Weather permitting, the three ice slides remain accessible from mid-December through mid-March, and possibly even beyond.
With the capacity to accommodate up to four passengers per toboggan, remember to secure your hats tightly, for an exhilarating ride awaits as you hurtle down the slide’s icy lanes.”
Article courtesy of Dufferin Tobaggan. For more information please visit here
Courtesy of https://au1884.ca/toboggan-slide-tickets/
Photo credit Toboggan Slide Au 1884
Photo credit Paris House
Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, Located in Place-Royale in Old Québec
Our travel agents are featured in this article, and Chateau Frontenac's impeccable concierge services are here to ensure you're well taken care of during your visit.
Paris House Kitchen: Chocolate Ganache Tart
(inspired by bon appétit)
Ingredients
12 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped
2 cups heavy cream
6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into 1" pieces
Flaky sea salt to sparkle on top when cooled & assembled
Crust
Place a rack in middle of oven; preheat to 350°
11-12" tart pan with removable bottom
1 & 1/2 Cups of flour
6 Tablespoons of sugar
Pinch of salt
9 Tablespoons chilled butter, cut into pieces.
Combine all ingredients in a bowl to combine in fine crumbs or you can use a food processor.
Press dough into bottom and sides of tart pan and bake until very lightly browned- if crust begins to brown please cover with foil until finished baking. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or so depending on your oven.
Let cool completely before adding the ganache to it!
Feel free to use your own tart crust recipe if you prefer
Ganache
Place chocolate in a medium bowl. Heat cream in a small saucepan until just beginning to simmer; immediately pour over chocolate. Add butter and mix until smooth and glossy. Scrape ganache into cooled crust and smooth. Chill, uncovered for at least 1 hour.
We add flaky sea salt to the top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream and garnish with edible gold leaf.
Strawberry Champagne
Fashion Editorial
Photographer, Christen Holly Photography
Hair and Makeup, Christen Holly
Fashion Stylist, Floral and Set Designer, Michele Rosenthal
Model, Reese Caruso
CAROLINE loves dressing up for Valentine’s Day with her friends! From chic red lipstick, sparkly
dresses and movie star hair, she embodies the modern day starlit!
Photographer, Christen Holly Photography
Hair and Makeup, Christen Holly
Fashion Stylist, Floral and Set Designer, Michele Rosenthal
Model, Caroline Lee
Ask Michele
“As a fulltime mom who works 7 days a week, how can I carve out time for myself?”
I often refer to this as the womanly art of doing it all which we can do just not at the same time! Here are a few of my suggestions on how to stop wasting time, start living a more fulfilling life and learn when to say “NO!!!” As a mom I know that no matter how old our children are you are always busy, they always need you just in different ways. Having said that, give yourself some grace when your children are young and say no to anything that doesn't align with what's best for you and your family, especially if you are working fulltime. You don’t need to volunteer at every single school event, it's EXHAUSTING!!! The first and most obvious thing you can do is STOP scrolling on social media, setting a notification that will make you aware of how much you are online. This reminder will save you hours of wasted time a week, giving you more time for yourself. Get help from family whenever possible, use that time to go on a date with your partner, read a book, bake a cake, take a walk, host a girls’ night book club dinner party, or basically whatever you want to do in your free time. Remember the baby and toddler years go by fast, so for those in that stage of motherhood, enjoy every minute, the rest will fall into place with a little planning and help from your loved ones.
The Paris House Book Club
Rules of Civility
By Amor Towles
Audio book
I am currently listening to Rules of Civility. I read the book several years ago and am enjoying listening to it on Audible.
The Snow Child
By Eowyn Ivey
Book
This lovely book, inspired by the folk tale Russian Maiden is solely up to the reader to interpret. Despite the hardships and bitter cold winters the characters endure, your heart will be warmed by this beautiful story. It remains one of my top 10 favorite books.
Binge Watch
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante
The Book Club Dinner Party
Beauty
Stylish Winter Fashion
Sunday Guides, Valentine’s Day
https://theparishouse.com/blog-1/sunday-guides-valentines-day
Out and About with Paris House
Branchbrook Park Cherry Blossoms
Laduree Sogo Garden
Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club
Dining by the Sea in Athens, Greece
Joie de Vivre
Watch our Lifestyle show on Joie de Vivre TV Network.
Use code MICHELE10
https://joiedevivretv.com/
Sponsors & Advertisers
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Hotel Matchmaker Sarah Siems
Sarah Siems is a luxury travel advisor providing her clients with bespoke experiences and perks. From hotels, activities, and favorite products, Sarah shares recommendations to create your favorite future memories.
Love VIP treatment? Booking with Sarah means receiving unwavering support, high-value research, and exclusive perks at your hotel. Thanks to her partnerships with thousands of hotels worldwide, you can enjoy benefits such as complimentary breakfasts, resort credits, welcome amenities, room upgrades, early check-ins, and late checkouts. Experience the best in luxury travel with Sarah’s exceptional service and connections.
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Skyland World Travel
Located in Hackettstown, NJ. Be part of the Skyland World Travel Family. Where it is all about you! “1 phone call (908-852-7081) for all your travel needs”.
https://skylandworldtravel.com/
Christen Holly Photography
The best part of being in New England in the fall is seeing all the beautiful fall colors. Capture these special moments with a photographer who embraces vibrant colors in photos that will last a lifetime!
Contact Christen at christenhollyphoto@gmail.com
View samples of work at https://www.facebook.com/christenhollyphotography and https://www.instagram.com/christenhollyphotography
Media Collaborations
Mansion in May, New Jersey
Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac, Quebec City, Canada
About The Paris House
The Paris House, Luxury Lifestyle Brand
The Paris House is your one-stop-shop for travel destinations, unforgettable events, and editorial and personal fashion styling. Their floral arrangements are sourced from New York City’s Flower District and elevate the beauty of your events and hotel rooms. Michele’s international travel show, “The Paris House, Luxury Travel and Lifestyle Show”, is featured in the Paris based “Joie de Vivre Network”.
Whether designing in Rome, Reykjavik, NYC or beyond, Michele is always creating gorgeous moments for her clients and partners. The Paris House’s locations range from elaborate sets at its rooftop studio near NYC, events of all scales across the Northeast, and Michele’s historic New Jersey country home and gardens which has hosted parties, music videos, and photo shoots.
Company founder, Michele Rosenthal, has 30 years of experience and studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology, Travel and Tourism at Endicott College and holds degrees in Interior Design and Business Marketing. She helped launch a multi million dollar division of Saint Clare’s hospital in the early ‘90s.
Whatever your needs are, our company will make your vision come to life. We are content creators, portfolio builders and memory makers.
Michele is the Editor of Sunday Guides, Luxury Lifestyle & Travel media.